Mortar compositions

ABSTRACT

Novel aqueous non-hydraulic mortar compositions are disclosed comprising a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature cross-linkable polymer and a water-insoluble filler. Setting and grouting of ceramic tile by these compositions are also disclosed.

United States Patent [191 Weiant et al.

[ MORTAR COMPOSITIONS [75] Inventors: David S. Weiant, Moorestown, N.J.;

Frank E. Bernett, Yardley, Pa.; William R. Velivis, Trenton, NJ.

[73] Assignee: Tile Council of America, Inc.,

Princeton, NJ.

22 Filed: Nov. 8, 1972 21 Appl.No.:304,727

Related US. Application Data [63] Continuation of Ser. No. 105,109, Jan. 8, 1971,

abandoned.

R, 29.7 S, 29.7 H

[56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 3,240,736 3/1966 Beckwith 260/29.7 S

[ Oct. 28, 1975 3,421,277 l/1969 Frischmuth 260/29.6 ME 3,650,995 3/1972 Erickson 260/29.6 WB 3,706,696 12/1972 Bernett 260/29.6 E

3,714,107 l/1973 Smith 260/29.7 R

FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS 714,782 9/1954 United Kingdom OTHER PUBLICATIONS Chemical Abstracts, Vol. 56, No. 12, Entry 15667i, June 11, 1962.

Primary Examiner-Joseph L. Schofer Assistant Examiner-P. R. Michl Attorney, Agent, or FirmMorgan, Finnegan, Pine, Foley & Lee

[57] ABSTRACT Novel aqueous non-hydraulic mortar compositions are disclosed comprising a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature cross-linkable polymer and a waterinsoluble filler. Setting and grouting of ceramic tile by these compositions are also disclosed.

12 Claims, No Drawings MORTAR COMPOSITIONS This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 105,109, filed Jan. 8, 1971, now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to new and improved mortar compositions, which are especially suitable in grouting applications and filling the joints between ceramic tiles. This invention relates to the compositions, the method of grouting using said compositions and the installed product wherein said compositions are used to bond the individual tiles. More particularly, this is concerned with aqueous non-hydraulic grout and thin-bed mortar compositions which comprise a film-forming, waterdispersible cross-linkable polymer and a water-insoluble filler and to the method of grouting and bonding ceramic tile, cement tile, bricks, natural stones, mineral chips, glass tessera and glass plates, employing said compositions.

Conventional mortars for setting title consist of Portland cement, lime and sand. Water is added to this mixture to obtain workability and to take part in the hardening or curing action by means of which the cement forms a gel. These mortars are not entirely selfcuring in that they tend to lose considerable water by evaporation into the surrounding atmosphere and also by absorption into the tile or masonry which is being set. If the water loss is too great, the curing action is incomplete and the mortar becomes soft and chalky. Moreover, these conventional mortars require heavy, thick and generally multiple layers to be placed before setting the tile. This entails the use of large quantities of these materials and considerable labor for mixing, placing and trowelling of such underlayers. In addition, very wet conditions must be maintained for proper hardening and bonding which leads to the troublesome operation of soaking all nonvitreous ceramic tile before setting and the taking of considerable precautions to insure the regulation of such wet conditions during the period of curing. Another disadvantage of such mortars concerns the impracticality of using them over such substrates as gypsum wallboard or plaster.

A more recent innovation in the tile setting industry relates to the use of dry set mortar and grouts. However, these compositions generally stain badly, crack easily and develop poor strength under dry conditions. Furthermore, these materials have poor acid and chemical resistance.

The compositions described in the instant application are essentially free of the undesirable properties which are characteristic of the aforementioned mortar compositions. More specifically, they have easy to trowel non-Newtonian consistencies; they are suitable grouts for filling joints between impervious and absorptive types of ceramic tile; they are suitable for use as thinset mortars; they exhibit minimal shrinkage and they be come highly water and stain resistant after a period of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, this invention is concerned with aqueous non-hydraulic mortar compositions having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 cps to 1,200,00 cps which comprise a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature cross-linkable polymer and a water-insoluble filler. The aforesaid aqueous composition is preferably in the form of an emulsion; however, for purposes of this invention, suspensions, dispersions and partial solutions are also contemplated. The Brookfield helipath viscosity when measured at 2.5 rpm.

Particularly preferred embodiments of the aforedescribed compositions are those in which the cross-linking process is assisted by the addition of a cross-linking agent or a catalyst. When an acidic catalyst is utilized, it is further preferred to include an activating agent.

Preferred amounts of each component are as follows: It is understood, however, that components A, B and F are essential components whereas the inclusion of C, D and E are preferred embodiments.

glass, quartz, silica, limestone, alumina trihydrate and mixtures thereof.

The present invention is also concerned with the method of setting and grouting tile using the aforesaid compositions and to the articles of construction comprising tiles bonded to a support wherein the spaces between the tiles and/or the bonding material between the tiles and support consist of the compositions herein described.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The novel mortar compositions of this invention are highly effective for grouting or filling joints between ceramic tiles and for adhering these tiles to various backings. The grout and mortar products resulting from the use of these compositions are especially desirable because they are resistant to water, chemicals (acid and solvent), and U.V. light and, in addition, are stain resistant and have excellent wet characteristics. Moreover, they are easy to apply.

The novel aqueous non-hydraulic mortar compositions of this invention principally comprise:

a. a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature cross-linkable polymer; and

b. a water-insoluble filler; and

c. water in the following preferred amounts:

a. 2-16% by weight b. 50-90% by weight c. 8l5% by weight.

The first essential component of the herein disclosed novel composition is the water-dispersible polymer. It is the cornerstone of the entire invention; therefore, its important function shall be discussed first.

It must be capable of cross-linking or curing at room temperature when combined with the other ingredients which make up the entire aqueous composition. One novel aspect, therefore, is its ability to undergo at least preliminary cross-linking under the conditions of typical grout application; namely, in the presence of water and at room temperature. This initial cross-linking of polymer occurs without the usual drying and heating techniques that are normally used when polymer emulsions are used to manufacture nonwoven fabrics. The cross-linking process is then brought to completion, preferably, by the addition or promotion of a catalyst or cross-linking agent. However, after a reasonable period of time, the mortar will set to provide a grout even without the cross-linking agent or catalyst.

Although the mechanism by which the initial crosslinking occurs is not fully understood at the present time, its occurrence is highly unexpected and unusual particularly in light of the operating conditions; the polymer begins to cross-link at room temperature when combined with the other ingredients while in an aqueous environment. Cross-linking is effective once the grouting composition is dried. This initial phase in the overall formation of a highly useful end product is not only unexpected but results in a product which exhibits unusual properties.

A preferred aspect of this invention which relates to the aforedescribed cross-linking process concerns the utilization of a cross-linking aid. This aid can either be a cross-linking agent or a catalyst which accelerates and assists in promoting the cross-linking process to its desired end.

In the situation where a catalyst is used to assist in the cross-linking process, the polymer is of the type which contains substituents capable of interacting with pendant substituents, which can be the same or different, on other present polymer molecules. If the polymer chains are similar, the substituents will be the same the converse is also true. Both situations are contemplated by this invention. When cross-linking is accelerated by a catalyst, the interaction is between the substituents directly.

The catalyst material of this invention is preferably an acidic catalyst and, in particular, inorganic and organic salts, organic acids and amine acid-addition salts. Specific examples include ammonium chloride, magnesium chloride, ammonium sulfate, ammonium bromide, ammonium thiocyanate, dichloroacetic acid, ptoluene sulfonic acid, citric acid, oxalic acid, sulfamic acid and 2-methyl-2-aminopropanol-l-hydrochloride. When the catalyst is an acidic catalyst of the type just described, it is sometimes desirable to include an activating agent to accelerate setting. A typical activating agent is formaldehyde; however, those known in the art of polymerization are within the purview of this invention. The amount of said activating agent will generally be in catalytic quantities. 7

However, depending on the particular polymer utilized, the catalyst material can be different from the acidic catalyst defined above.

For instance, it can be a peroxidic material; polyurethane resins can be cross-linked by using peroxides: and polyethylene, ethylene-propylene copolymers and polysiloxanes are cross-linked by using aperoxide such as dicumyl peroxide or di-t-butyl peroxide.

Another illustrative catalyst material encompassed by the present invention is atmospheric oxygen which effectively cross-links unsaturated polyesters (alkyds) usually in the presence of metal ions (cobalt, manganese, iron, lead and zinc) in the form of carbyxylic acid salts.

Another suitable catalyst for certain polymers is radiating light. Radiation effectively cross-links polyethylene and ethylene copolymers. 1

a It is apparent from the above discussion that the polymer backbone is not critical it may be homopolymeric, copolymeric or mixtures thereof. The polymer may be an addition polymer as illustrated by polyolefins, polyvinyl compounds, polyepoxides and polyacetals or the polymer may be of the condensation type as represented by polyesters and polyamides. Furthermore, for purposes of this invention, the particular polymer structure is not critical it includes, therefore, polymers which are trans, cis, isotactic, syndiotactic, tritactic, atactic and all other possibilities.

The copolymer type may be random, alternating or block. Graft copolymers are also contemplated. Still further, terpolymers are within the scope of this invention.

Accordingly, the critical feature of the polymer is the substituents which are contained thereon. More particularly, the polymers must contain substituents which allow the polymer to undergo an initial cross-linking which continues to substantial completion. Hence, the

polymer must be film-forming; it must be water-dispersible; and it must be capable of curing at room temperatures while in the aqueous state.

i The substituents which are formed on the polymer backbone and which are capable of providing a polymer having the necessary properties defined above are numerous and the following is only a representative listing:

I CH CH2 P Y -0H hydroxy -c1 halogen -cu2on nothjrlol -CONH2 (N N 2) amide -COOH v eatboxy -coon ea- -ca-cn2 of "mm 4400 ilocyuutn f-RH-GM-CWQM c1171 carbonate -0-cHz-RH-.Q -CB-ctlz nothyl ol newt-id.

4mg, NRR, -NR2 7 amino I -fiqn cgrgg li-mthylol mid.

-cg-c internal. double bond wherein R is normally alkyl.

The above shown examples are not limiting; rather, only representative of the many possible substituents which are capable of imparting the desired properties to the polymers applicable for purposes of this invention. 1

Polymers which contain substituents of the type exemplified above include:

urea-formaldehyde resins melamine-formaldehyde resins the herein disclosed novel compositions can vary from i 500 to one million depending on the particular polymer. For purposes of this invention, the preferred polymers are those which are either commercially available or easily synthesized using well-documented techniques. The molecular weight is not the deciding parameter insofar as the inventive aspect is concerned. Rather, as explained above, it is the ability of the polymer having certain reactive substituents to undergo cross-linking at room temperature under aqueous conditions to provide a highly effective grouting composition.

The aqueous compositions when all the components are combined are usually in an emulsion state. In fact, the polymer used herein typically exists in an emulsion and is usually commercially available in that particular state. Although an emulsion is most preferred, it is also possible to have a dispersion, suspension or partial aqueous solution.

A partial aqueous solution exists when a portion of the polymer molecule is water soluble or when the cross-linking agent is water soluble.

It is important to recognize that when cross-linking begins and during its progression, water is present. This is an unusual property for acid catalyzed polymerization.

It should be recognized also that the aqueous composition of this invention can provide effective grouting compositions despite the omission of a cross-linking agent or catalyst. However, the rate of interreaction and,'more specifically, cross-linking, is slower under such conditions and, therefore, although operable, is less preferred. It is therefore advantageous to include a cross-linking agent or catalyst to accelerate the rate of curing. Accordingly, their inclusion constitute the preferred embodiments of this invention.

The second principal ingredient in the novel aqueous compositions of this invention is a water insoluble filler. Illustrative of the fillers which may be employed are glass, such as crushed glass, quartz, silica, barytes, limestone, alumina, various clays, diatomaceous earth and 6 other like inert materials, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, sand, pyrophyllite, blanc fixe, granulated polyethylene, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof. A preferred combination consists of a mixture of glass, quartz, silica and alumina trihydrate.

The amount of filler added is in the range from to 90% by weight of the total composition. The filler is water-insoluble; therefore, when it is combined with the other ingredients of the composition, it will be emulsified, dispersed or suspended.

The compositions of this invention may also contain a water-soluble, water-retentive agent such as methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. The amount added is not critical. Since such materials are known to be useful in preparing grouting compositions, the additive amounts are known to those who work in this art. These materials assist in controlling thixotrophy and viscosity characteristics.

In addition, there may also be added to the compositions other ingredients which are generally used in preparing mortar and grouting compositions. For instance, coloring agents, stabilizers, foam breakers, dispersants, wetting agents, emulsifiers, fungicides and the like may be included. Illustrative of coloring materials which may be added are titanium dioxide, cadmium red, carbon blac'k, aluminum powder and the like.

The present invention is also concerned with the application of the herein disclosed compositions in setting and grouting tile. They are particularly adapted for use as trowel-lable grouts or mortars to set ceramic tiles and to fill the joints between the tiles. They bond exceedingly well to the ceramic tile edges and to the backs of ceramic tile. In grouting, an assembly containing a plurality of ceramic tile in edge to edge relationship with spaces between the tiles is prepared and the spaces between the tile filled with the compositions of this invention. When used to set and grout ceramic tile, the compositions form a hard, adherent, chemically resistant bond between the backs of said ceramic tile and the substrate.

EXAMPLE I A mixture is prepared containing the following components:

Component Percentage Amount 1. Arcylic polymer A* 16.8675 1349.40 grams 2. Acrylic polymer 8* 4.2170 337.36 grams 3. Silica (96% through 20.7608 1660.86 grams 325 mesh) 4. Silica 5 Micron Average 9.4906 759.25 grams Particle Size 5. Glass 74-149 Microns 9.4906 759.25 grams Particle Size Range 6. Glass 44-5 Microns 9.4906 759.25 grams Particle Size Range 7. Titanium dioxide 2.2252 178.02 grams 8. Potassium tripolyphosphate .1077 8.62 grams -continued Component Percentage Amount 9. Methyl cellulose 15,000 .0215 1.72 grams cps. viscosity 10. Antifoam agent .1077 8.62 grams 1 I. Powdered Alumina 26.9621 2156.97 grams Trihydrate 12. Fungicide .2372 18.98 grams [3. Antifoam .0215 1.72 grams 100 .OOOO% 8000.02 grams vania 19105.

**Thermosetting acrylic emulsion polymer with functional acid crosslinkable groups, 60% solids. viscosity 40 to 120 cps. A commercial brand of this polymer that was found to work was 5660 obtained from Rohm and Haas Company.

The above composition is prepared by mixing the components in a high speed mixer. The resulting product has a viscosity of 120,000 cps. and a specific gravity of 1.84. It contains about 10% by weight total water.

Shelf stability of these formulations is noted to be exceedingly good. Even after nine months, no change is detected in stored samples. This product is suitable for use as a tile mortar and tile grout. For instance, a portion of this formulation was used to grout a panel of wall tile. The next day, the grout was hard and gave the appearance of a typical tile grout.

To 200 grams of the formulation described above was added 1 gram of ammonium chloride catalyst. The resulting material was used to grout a panel of glazed wall tile. On the following day, the grout was harder than the uncatalyzed grout and more difficult to dig out by fingernail.

After 21 days the catalyzed grout was more stain and water resistant than the 21 day old uncatalyzed grout and extremely hard.

Smooth silica sand may be used in place of the crushed glass, ingredients 5 and 6 above.

EXAMPLE II To 400 gram amounts of the formulation described in Example I is added the following amounts of ammonium chloride catalyst. The samples are then tested by a Gilmore needle according to ASTM C266, for their setting time in a 100% humidity cabinet. The following results were obtained:

Crosslinking Grout/Ammonium Chloride Initial Setting Time 1. 400 grams]! gram 12 hrs. 36 min. 2. 400 grams/2 grams 8 hrs. 34 min. 3. 400 grams/3 grams 3 hrs. 54 min.

4. 400 grams/4 grams Stiflened while mixing EXAMPLE III The procedure of Example II is repeated except that catalytic amounts of formaldehyde were added to each of the catalyzed compositions. In each instance, the setting time was decreased substantially. To 400 grams of the composition of Example I, 10 grams of formalin 37% solution were added. Then 3 grams of ammonium chloride were added to catalyze the composition. The fast set time of 25 minutes was obtained.

EXAMPLE IV A 400 gram sample of the grout composition prepared according to the procedure of Example I was mixed with 2 grams of 12.5% sulfamic acid water solution. The set time under humidity was even shorter than was obtained with the ammonium chloride. Sulfamic acid was found to be a suitable catalyst.

EXAMPLE V EXAMPLE VI To the surface of a 4 ft. by 5 ft., 2 inch thick panel of cut-cell expanded polystyrene, impervious ceramic mosaic tiles and absorptive dry glazed wall tiles were adhered each with each of the following three mortar compositions A, B and C. At successive time intervals attempts were made to pry-off individual tiles.

A. Mortar composition of Example I with no catalyst.

B. Mortar composition of Example I with 0.50% ammonium chloride.

C. Mortar composition of Example I with 0.75% ammonium chloride.

Times After Compositions OBSERVATIONS Application Used Ceramic Mosaics Wall Tiles 2 hrs. A pried off easily pried off easily 2 hrs. B pried off easily breaks tile 2 hrs. C pried off easily breaks tile 7 hrs. A pried off easily breaks tile 7 hrs. B pried off easily very tightly bonded 7 hrs. C pried off easily very tightly bonded 24 hrs. A pried off easily very tightly bonded 24 hrs. B dif. to pry off very tightly bonded 24 hrs. C dif. to pry off very tightly bonded board, cardboard, composition board, cinderblock, cement block, brick and sheet aluminum. The above samples were repeated using the catalyzed mortars of Example I. The advantages of rapid stiffening or short set time over nonporous surfaces were noted with catalyzed mortar. When wetted, the tiles were more easily pried off the different backings when the uncatalyzed mortar had been used as the adherent.

EXAMPLE X A composition was prepared having the following formula:

Component Percentage Amount 1. Acrylic polymer A of Example 1 7.8921 157.8 grams 2. Acrylic polymer B of Example 1 1.7238 34.4

3. Water 10.7690 215.2

4. Silica (96% through 325 mesh) 21.5838 431.6

5. Silica 5 Micron Average 9.8658 197.2

Particle Size 6. Glass 74-149 microns 9.8658 197.2

particle size range 7. Glass 445 microns 9.8658 197.2

particle size range 8. Titanium dioxide 1.1364 20.6

9. Potassium tripolyphosphate 0.0550 1.0

10. Methyl cellulose 15,000 cps. 0.0109 0.2

viscosity grade 1 1. Antifoam 0.0655 1.2

12. Powdered Alumina Trihydrate 27.0323 540.6

13. Fungicide 0.1211 2.4

14. Ammonium hydroxide (stabilizer) 0.0127 0.2

' 100.0000% 1996.8 grams EXAMPLE VII A sample of mortar based on the formula in Example I was applied to an aluminum sheet 0.050 inch thick. Samples of ceramic tile, glass tile, quarry tile and wall tile were set on the sheet. The test was repeated using catalyzed grout. In all cases time when tiles could not be pried off easily was lessened by the use of catalyst. The tiles were then grouted with the same formulatrons.

EXAMPLE VIII A sample of the mortar composition based upon the formula described in Example I was applied to a cinder block. Stones were pressed in the plastic mortar layer to form a decorative exposed aggregate surfacing. A second similar sample was prepared in the same manner except that 0.75% by weight of ammonium chloride catalyst was added to the formulation. Freshly applied stones were observed to cling better to the catalyzed mortar. The catalyzed composition demonstrated improved bonding when one attempted to pry off a 1 inch diameter stone. The rapid extra stiffening caused by catalyst addition improved the application. After days, water soak test and scratch tests indicated an improved water resistant product was obtained. After days the product was exceptionally hard after immersion in water for three days.

EXAMPLE IX A sample of the mortar based on the formula in Example I was used to bond wall tile, quarry tile and ceramic mosaic tile to wall board, cut cell styrene board, insulation block, insulation board, plywood, cement The resulting composition with less binder than Example I has a viscosity of 16,000 cps. and a water content of about 14%. The composition was found to be acceptable when applied as a grout and mortar to wall tile.

EXAMPLE XI EXAMPLE XII The procedure of Example I is repeated to prepare similar compositions except the following water-insoluble fillers are used in the following percent by weight amounts instead of the silica-glass-aluminum trihydrate system:

silica by weight aluminum. by weight glass-sand (50:50) by weight quartz by weight aluminum-trihydratetalc (50:50) 80% by weight granulated polyethylene 50% by weight EXAMPLE XIII A sample of the mortar based on the formula in Example I with catalyst was used to set and grout 1 inch EXAMPLE XIV The following experiment was carried out to show a comparison between catalyzed and uncatalyzed grout compositions. The compositions applied as grouts between glazed wall tiles were subjected to wet abrasion tests which employ the Standard Gardner Scrub Tester. 1,000 scrub cycles in the machine gave the following results:

Grout From Examples No. 1 0.006 inches scrubbed off With 0.5% NH.Cl catalyst (after 24 hours) Grout From Example No. I With Catalyst (after 3 days) Grout From Example No. 1 Without Catalyst (after 30 days) 0.000 inches scrubbed out 0.029 inches scrubbed off Grout samples disclosed in the present invention also showed improved stain resistance.

EXAMPLE XV The following test demonstrated the excellent wet shear strength exhibited by the compositions of this invention. Bonded tile assemblies of mortar based upon Weight of Grout Sample) (Weight of Residue)] X 100 [Weight of Grout Sample] sured after flow over five identical previously measured sections of grout on each panel section for each chemical solution tested. Actual depth of erosion in mils after 30 hours of operation are listed in the following table:

C B A (l) 10% acetic acid 38.6 7.2 2.4 (2) citric acid 25.4 12.0 1.6

This example is cited to demonstrate the superior acid resistance of a grout based on a cross-linking resin system.

I EXAMPLE xvn A test for the determination of resistance to solvents was developed. The test showed the improved solvent resistance of the grout formulas of this invention.

Hardened grout samples were dug out of tile joints. In the test, approximately 2 g. of the sample was weighed to the nearest 0.1 mg. and placed in a 4-ounce jar with 100 ml. of acetone.

Each of the jars were stirred 2 hours by a magnetic stirrer. The contents of the jars were then filtered through glass wool, and the filtrate collected in a tared 4-inch evaporating dish. The jar and glass wool filter were rinsed with acetone and collected in the evaporating dish.

When the filtrate in the evaporating dish was evaporated to constant weight, the percent of acetone insolubles were as follows:

= Percent Acetone lnsolubles the composition described in Example I with and with- 40 A sample of grout based on uncatalyzed formulation out catalysts were tested according to American National Standards Institute Test for Organic Adhesives ANSI 136.1, 1967. Following are results in pounds per square inch:

Shear Bond Strength Dry Wet Without Catalyst 508 psi 55 psi With Catalyst 510 psi 230 psi Commercial brand noncrosslinking 460 psi 30 psi type grout No commercial grouts presently available have produced a wet bond in excess of 40 psi as determined by the above test.

EXAMPLE XVI in Example I had an acetone insolubles of 96.59 percent. A sample of the same grout, but with 0.5% N1-I Cl catalyst indicated acetone insolubles of 98.02 percent. Samples of grout based on commercial brand noncrosslinking type resin system gave acetone insolubles of 88.0 percent.

EXAMPLE XVIII No catalyst 97.2% insoluble 0.5% Nl-I C1 catalyst 98.8% insoluble No catalyst 98.7% insoluble 9% hr. at C. 0.5% Nl-l Cl Catalyst 100.0% insoluble Vz hr. at 150C.

EXAMPLE XIX The following composition demonstrated that polyvinyl acetate copolymer emulsions are applicable for preparing grouts of this invention.

Component Percentage Amount 1. P.V.Ac. Acrylic 19.0873 381.746 grams Copolymer emulsion 2. Water 5.4225 108.4500 3. Silica (96% through 325 22.5189 450.378

mesh) 4. Micron Silica 7.7407 154.814 5. Glass (74-149 microns) 7.7407 154.814 6. Glass (44-45 microns) 7.7407 154.814 7. Titanium dioxide 1.7813 35.626 8. Potassium tripolyphosphate .0812 1.624 9. Methyl cellulose 15,000 .0169 0.0338

cps viscosity 10. Antifoaming agent .0973 1.9012 1 1. Powdered Alumina 27.5771 551.542

Tn'hydrate (Mean particle 80 micron) 12. Fungicide. .1951 3.3449

99.9997% 1999.994 grams The above grout formula was found suitable for filling the joints between glazed wall tile. The viscosity was 104,000 cps. and the specific gravity was 1.47.

The polyvinylacetate acrylic copolymer aqueous emulsion had methylol reactivity and, therefore, could be cross-linked at room temperature by addition of acid catalysts, such as, oxalic acid, ammonium thiocyanate, and ammonium chloride. Commercial brand 55 DEV, made by Franklin Chemical Company, 2020 Brush Street Columbus, Ohio 43207, is an example of this resin emulsion.

EXAMPLE XXI The procedure of Example I is repeated to prepare a similar composition except the following per cent by weight amounts of polymer material is used to provide suitable compositions:

l 1% water) 14% (+13% water) 2% water) 5% (+14% water) 7% (+13% water) 8% (+12% water) EXAMPLE XXll Mortars based on the formula in Examples 1 and XIX The mortar based on the components listed had viscosity of 740,000 centipoise and specific gravity of 1.90. When 0.5% ammonium chloride was mixed into this mortar, it formed a grout suitable for filling joints between vitreous tiles. After a week at room temperature, the grout was exceptionally hard, stain and water resistant.

In place of ammonium chloride, the following acidic catalysts in the amounts shown are substituted for ammonium chloride with comparable results:

ammonium bromide 0.03% ammonium thiocyanate 0.05% ammonium sulfate 1% ammonium thiocyanate 1% dichloroacetic acid 0.03% p-toluene sulfonic acid 0.04% citric acid 2% oxalic acid 0.5% sulfamic acid 0.03% 2-methyl'2-aminopropanol HCl 0.5% l-amino-4butanol HCl 1% were colored with common latex paint store coloring systems. In all cases pigments were compatible and the mortars got hard and water resistant with catalyst. Afte 15 days, the colored mortars were tested for hot water softening. The catalyzed mortars softened in water at higher temperatures than uncatalyzed mortars. The degree of softening was also less. Also, a satisfactory method of coloring the mortars was to combine the pigment with the catalyst and then add to the emulsion system.

EXAMPLE Xlll A catalyzed mortar of low viscosity based on the formula in Example 1 was added to wet Portland cement mortar. The mortar was applied to an aluminum sheet. Several pieces of tile were set in the motar on this sheet. Also, for comparison, other tiles were set on the sheet with plain Portland cement mortar. After 24 hours aging at room temperature, the catalyzed mortar was noted to be tightly bonded.

EXAMPLE XXIV Component A Another typical room temperature cross-linking pol- Percent ymer emulsion found suitable for producing the ce- Thermoplastic acrylic emulsion polymer* 21.5 ramic setting mortars of this invention was vinyl acetate g 332 6:5; copolymer latex, 45% solids, 0.14 micron particle size, B|ue pi 0.02 pH 4.7 viscosity 100 cps and minimum film (brittle) Q i i n 1 8-3 forming temperature 13C. This is a thermosetting g ggj j g" if 17:43 emulsion that ordinarily is used to bind fibers into nonglumina Trihylllillafg (100 mesh) I 1.32

1Q mmomum c on e woven fabrics by drying and applying high tempera Sand Passing Na 30 mesh 4690 ture. An example of this emulsion that produced a sult- Defoaming Agent 0.12 able mortar was X-LINK 2802 brand furnished by Nal00-00 tional Starch and Chemical Corporation, 750 Third Avenue, New York 10017.

Where used to replace both emulsions l and 2 of the A second component was made: formula of Example l, a mortar was formed suitable for Component B grouting and adhering ceramic tiles to gypsum wallboard and concrete masonry. ag g g Blanc Fixe (Barium Sulfate Powder) 25.45 EXAMPLE XXV 20 Sand passing No. mesh 50.48 .07 When a self-reactive vinyl acryllc terpolymer latex, Magnesium oxide powder 10000 solids, pH 4.6, viscosity 200 centipoise, average anionic particle size 0.14 micron was used in place of ggz a i p i copolymer g i g of Example 25 *This latex was typical of thermoplastic acrylic emul- 5mm 6 mortar was 0 tame sion polymer with functional carboxyl pendant groups, EXAMPLE XXV] 55% solids, pH 4.5, viscosity under 300 cps, anionic Th f n particle charge had a film forming temperature less 6 O Owmg aqueous composmon was prepare than 2C, glass point at 9C and was flexible. A com- Component Percentage Amount 1. Polymer A of Example l 3.7063 168.672 2. Polymer B of Example I 0.9178 41.768 3. Water 13.9081 632.940 4. Antifoaming agent .9234 5.168 5. Silica 30.3334 1380.432 6. Methyl cellulose 15,000 cps. .0377 1.720 7. Potassium tripolyphosphate .0946 4.308 8. Tio, 1.9558 89.008 9. Silica 3 microns average 8.3418 379.624

particle size 10. Glass 74-149 microns 8.3418 379.624

particle size range 1 1. Glass 44-5 microns 8.3418 379.624

particle size range 12. Aluminum trihydrate 23.6984 1078.484 13. Fungicide .2084 9.488

99.9993% 4550.850 grams EXAMPLE XXVll The following grout component was made:

mercial example of the emulsion that gave the above results is Rhoplex LC-40 available from Rohm and Haas Company, Independence Mall, West, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19105.

400 grams of component A were mixed with grams of component B. The resulting grout had a trowelable viscosity of about 230,000 cps and hardened between ceramic tiles overnight at 100% humidity.

EXAMPLE XXVlll Thermosetting polyvinylchloride acrylic copolymer emulsions are found to produce a mortar with the good properties of this invention. Following is a complete mortar formula found suitable for filling joints (grouting) and setting (adhering ceramic tile).

Component Percentage Amount 1. Vinylchloride Copolymer* 22.96 1836.8 grams 2. Silica (96% through 325 mesh) 20.27 1621.6 3. Silica 5 micron average 9.26 740.8 4. Glass 74-149 microns particle 9.26 740.8

size range -continued Component Percentage Amount 5. Glass 44-5 microns particle 9.26 740.8

size range 6. Titanium dioxide 2.19 175.2 7. Potassium tripolyphosphate .10 8.0 8. Methyl cellulose 15,000 cps .0209 1.6720

viscosity 9. Antifoaming agent .12 9.6 10. Powdered Alumina Trihydrate 26.32 2105.6 11. Fungicide .24 19.2

100.0009% 8000.0720 grams "This was a thcrmosctting polyvinylchloride acrylic copolymcr emulsion, 51% solids, pH 2.2, viscosity 200 cps, particle charge. Anionic, surface tension 37 dynes per cm. and glass transition temperature over 26C. ln the instant invention, acid catalysts were used to obtain cure in the presence of water. A commercial brand found suitable for tile mortars was Gcon 460 Xl vinyl chloride copolymer produced by B. F. Goodrich Cornpany, 3135 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland. Ohio 441 15.

EXAMPLE XXIX A polymer emulsion is prepared in the following general way for use in the tile-setting mortar of this invention.

A mixture of 85 parts vinyl acetate monomer, 12 parts of dioctyl fumarate monomer and 3 parts of methylol acrylamide is added over a 3 hour period to 50 parts of 60F water containing 0.1% of a sodium salt of an alkylaryl polyether sulfonate and the initiator potassium persulfate. The batch is constantly agitated. First the mixture is heated to 70F and held at that temperature for about an hour. Then an additional 50 parts of water containing 1.5% potassium persulfate is added over a 1% hour period maintaining the 70F temperature of the batch. Then the batch is held, continuing agitation, for 1 hour more at 70F and finally allowing the temperature to rise to 80F for one more hour. 200 grams of the cross-linkable vinyl acetate copolymer emulsion so formed is cooled, filtered, and substituted for polymer ingredients A and B of Example I to form a mortar suitable for grouting and setting ceramic tiles on various substrates.

EXAMPLE XXX The procedure of Example I is repeated to prepare a similar composition except instead of polymers A and B, the following polymers, in equivalent amounts, are used (in emulsion form) together with the shown catalyst or cross-linking agent:

1. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain selected from the group consisting of epoxy, hydroxy, halogen, methylol, amide, carboxy, ester, a-olefin, isocyanate, allyl carbamate, methylol acrylamide, amino, N-methylol amide, interval double bond and combinations thereof, water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

2. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature,

cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are hydroxy groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group con sisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina Polymer Cross-linking Agent Catalyst Epoxy resin (reaction ethylene diamine product of epichlorohydn'n and Bisphenol A) polyisoprene diallyl phthalate polymethylmethacrylate allyl methacrylate in those instances where a cross-linking agent is used, a stoichiometric equivalent amount is added whereas with the catalysts, catalytic amounts are used.

What is claimed is:

dicumyl peroxide di-t-butyl peroxide di-t butyl peroxide atmospheric oxygen p-toluene sulfonic succinic acid carbonic acid trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

3. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are methylol groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina tribydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

4. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are amide groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof and a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

5. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are carboxy groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

6. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of l0,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are methylol acrylamide groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrates, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

7. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a filmforming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are amino groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina tribydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

8. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature,

cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are N- methylol amide groups,

a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and

a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to l6% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.

9. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 120,000 cps comprising about 10% by weight (solids) of a mixture of film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable group and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.

10. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 16,000 cps comprising about 5% by weight (solids) of a mixture of film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and an acrylic polymer having acid cross-linkable groups and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.

11. An aqueous mortar composition comprising about 2.5% by weight (solids) of a mixture of filmforming, water-dispersible, room temperature, crosslinkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and an acrylic polymer having acid cross-linkable groups and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.

12. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 740,000 cps comprising about 7% by weight (solids) of a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer, said polymer being an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and about 80% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION PATENT NO. 3 915 917 DATED October 28, 1975 INVENTOR( 1 David S, Weiant et al.

It is certified that error appears in the ab0veidentitied patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 1, line 21, "title" should read --tile--, line 64, "1,200,00" should read -l,200,000-.

Column 3, line 61, "carbyxylic" should read -carboxylic-- Column 6 line 18, "thixotrophy" should read --thixotropy.--

Column 7, line 13, "example of the general" should read --example of this general-.

Column 14, line 51, "Afte" should read -After-, line 64, "motar" should read --mortar- 1 Column 15, line 54, "diaceteone" should read -diacetone-- Column 18, line 27, 'interval"should read -internal-- Column 19, line 11 and Column 20, line 11, "tribydrate", in each instance, should read --trihydrate- Signed and Sealed this thirteenth Day of April1976 [SEAL] A lies I:

RUTH C. MASON C. MARSHALL DANN (mnmissiuncr UfllIfC/IIS and Trademarks Arrosn'ng Officer 

1. AN AQUEOUS NON-HYDRAULIC MORTAR COMPOSITION HAVING A VISCOSITY IN THE RANGE OF 10,000 TO 1,200,000 CPS COMPRISING A FILN-FORMING, WATER DISPERSIBLE, ROOM TEMPERATURE, CROSSLINKABLE POLYMER HAVING REACTIVE SUBSTITUENTS ON THE POLYMER CHAIN SELECTED FROM THE GROUP CONSISTING OF EPOXY, HYDROXY, HALOGEN, METHYLOL, AMIDE, CARBOXY ESTER, A-OLEFIN, ISOCYANATE, ALLYL CARBAMATE, METHYLOL ACRYLAMIDE, AMINO, N-METHYLOL AMIDE, INTERVAL DOUBLE BOND AND COMBINATIONS THEREOF, A WATER-INSOLUBLE FILLER SELECTED FROM THE GROUP CONSISTING OF GLASS, QUARTZ, SILICA, LIMESTONE, BARYTES, ALUMINA TRIHYDRATE, TALC, PYROPHYLLITE, ZINC OXIDE AND MIXTURES THEREON, AND A CROSS-LINKING AID, WHICH IS AMMONIUM CHLORIDE, SAID POLYMER COMPRISING FROM 2% TO 16% BY WEIGHT, AND SAID FILLER FROM 50% TO 90% BY WEIGHT, AND SAID CROSS-LINKING AID FROM 0.03% TO 2.0% BY WEIGHT OF THE TOTAL AQUEOUS COMPOSITION.
 2. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are hydroxy groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 3. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are methylol groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 4. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are amide groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 5. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are carboxy groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 6. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are methylol acrylamide groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrates, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 7. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are amino groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrates, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 8. An aqueous non-hydraulic mortar composition having a viscosity in the range of 10,000 to 1,200,000 cps comprising a film-forming, water dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer having reactive substituents on the polymer chain, which substituents are N-methylol amide groups, a water-insoluble filler selected from the group consisting of glass, quartz, silica, limestone, barytes, wollastonite, mica, flint powder, kryolite, alumina trihydrate, talc, pyrophyllite, zinc oxide and mixtures thereof, and a cross-linking aid, which is ammonium chloride, said polymer comprising from 2% to 16% by weight, and said filler from 50% to 90% by weight, and said cross-linking aid from 0.03% to 2.0% by weight of the total aqueous composition.
 9. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 120,000 cps comprising about 10% by weight (solids) of a mixture of film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.
 10. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 16,000 cps comprising about 5% by weight (solids) of a mixture of film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and an acrylic polymer having acid cross-linkable groups and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.
 11. An aqueous mortar composition comprising about 2.5% by weight (solids) of a mixture of film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymers consisting of an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and an acrylic polymer having acid cross-linkable groups and about 77% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of a mixture of silica, glass and alumina trihydrate.
 12. An aqueous mortar composition having a viscosity of about 740,000 cps comprising about 7% by weight (solids) of a film-forming, water-dispersible, room temperature, cross-linkable polymer, said polymer being an acrylic resin having methylol acrylamide and acid cross-linkable groups and about 80% by weight (solids) of a water insoluble filler consisting of silica, sand, limestone and alumina trihydrate. 